A number of figures have been thrown about regarding the exact offer Spurs put in, though the latest reports in the Birmingham Mail state that West Brom valued the player at £25 million and were unwilling to sell for anything less.

Sako, on the other hand, joined Palace on a free transfer after seeing out his contract with Championship side Wolverhampton Wanderers, and he has so far proved to be a fabulous acquisition.

Goals per Game

Shots per Game

Key Passes per Game

Take-ons per Game

Touches per Game

Accurate Passes per Game

Ball Recoveries per Game

Dispossessed per Game

Appearances

Saido Berahino

0.4

1.2

0.2

1

34

16.2

4.6

2.6

5

Bakary Sako

0.4

3.8

1

1.6

44.2

19.8

3.8

2.4

5

As per the table provided by Opta Stats,the Eagles’ star has been instrumental for Alan Pardew’s side and betters his upcoming rival Berahino in six key attacking areas.

Sako, 27, has averaged more shots, key passes, successful take-ons, touches and accurate passes per Premier League encounter than the England man.

Moreover, the French-born Mali international is seemingly more careful with the ball, posting a higher pass percentage rate and being dispossessed less frequently than Berahino.

West Brom’s rising talent may have plenty of potential and age on his side, but such figures illustrate how much work needs to be done before he can be considered a talent worthy of such a hefty price tag.

Tom Thorogood

I'm a 27 year old language teacher and writer based out in Mexico with a passion for football and swimming. I like to focus on the top European Leagues, especially La Liga, as well as the footballing development in Central and South America. My favourite teams include Derby County, Barcelona and Jagaures de Chiapas.